KUCHING, Oct 26: Sarawak Association for People’s Aspiration (SAPA) is demanding greater educational autonomy for Sarawak and Sabah to prevent the Borneo States from having to “kowtow” (submit) to the whims and fancies of the Federal government.
This call came following a circular from the deputy director-general of the Ministry of Education (MoE), which encouraged all public schools to participate in a solidarity week in support of the Palestinian cause by organising certain suggested activities, which has drawn backlash from various quarters, including Sarawak.
SAPA publicity and information chief Peter John Jaban urged the Sarawak and Sabah governments to reject the Federal directive, which has the potential to exploit schools and students to promote a political agenda related to the Israeli-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
“This is an important global issue indeed, one that is likely to shape our times. While we might stand in solidarity with all victims of conflict, our schools are not the place for spreading this kind of partisan messages and hatred.
“By issuing the circular, the MoE is introducing political elements into the classroom which could cause conflict and tension among students and teachers with differing beliefs. The school is not a place for school children to be exposed to sentiments of hatred against other races and religions. We must assert independent thought and humanitarian values, now more than ever,” he said in a statement today.
Peter John, who is also Global Human Rights Federation (GHRF) deputy president, stressed that this is particularly more pressing in the Borneo States with their rich mix of ethnicity.
If this circular from the MoE is implemented, he said it could foster division and polarisation, instead of promoting conflict resolution and social unity among students.
“Our schools should focus on preparing the educational curriculum and developing critical thought instead. They certainly should not be subject to political interference,” he added.
Peter John also expressed parents’ grave concern over an alleged viral video clip showing school students entering and exiting a classroom while stomping their feet on the flag of a foreign country.
He questioned the intentions of politicians who use schools and impressionable students to impose their views on international political issues. — DayakDaily
